Kevin Flowers: Silver, you've been golden

An open letter to National Basketball Association Commissioner Adam Silver:

What's up, Adam?

You don't know me, but I'm a longtime fan of your league who pays attention.

I feel compelled to give you kudos, sir.

You took over the NBA's top job on Feb. 1, succeeding a legend, David Stern. Sure, that guy had his critics, but his leadership is largely why the league is a popular, global brand today. Well, you know that -- you worked alongside Stern for years.

Anyway, you've already made it clear that you are your own guy.

Today, the world knows Donald Sterling's name and mug.

The day you took office, the "average American" had no clue who the Los Angeles Clippers' owner was.

But boy did V. Stiviano, a recording device and idiotic, racially insensitive comments change all that with a quickness, huh?

Stern knew for years that Sterling was, shall we say, more than a tad loopy and not exactly a champion of all people.

But that billionaire got a pass for the most part. Not from you, though. You have led the charge to separate Sterling from both his ownership of the Clippers and the NBA in general.

Bravo for the fortitude, man. You banned an uber-rich team owner for life. You get the fact that a league with a heavily minority workforce and fan base, a league that needs hefty corporate sponsorships, simply cannot tolerate that stuff.

Sure there's legal wrangling and jockeying ahead. But we know where you stand.

Then during last week's NBA Draft, you pushed the right button again.

Former Baylor center Isaiah Austin, considered a sure first-round selection, was diagnosed days before with Marfan syndrome. The heart condition could be fatal if the 20-year-old plays again.

That didn't stop you from making sure Austin had his moment anyway.

At the draft, between the 15th and 16th picks, you announced that the NBA had selected Isaiah Austin. The kid got to hear applause, walk onto that Brooklyn stage, and get his photo-op with The Commish.

Classy. Compassionate. Priceless.

Adam, you know that fans and media can be unrealistic and brutal. Your decisions will be scrutinized and deconstructed for years.

Whatever.

Keep doin' your thing, Mr. Silver, and best of luck. From what this fan has seen, you're certainly up to the task.